Championship footballer charged with motoring offence

A Championship footballer has appeared in court charged with a motoring offence.

Former Leeds United player Jamie Shackleton, who is now at Sheffield United, appeared at Leeds Magistrates' Court on Wednesday accused of being in charge of a motor vehicle when over the prescribed limit.

The court heard the 25-year-old blew 73 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath during a breathalyser test, more than double the legal limit of 35, after he was arrested at the Fairburn Ings nature reserve in Castleford on 21 December.

Mr Shackleton denied the offence and a trial date was set for 12 June at the same court.

Prosecuting, Melanie Ibbotson said police officers found Mr Shackleton, of Dovecote Drive in Ledston, Castleford, in the driving seat of a vehicle parked at the nature reserve.

The vehicle's lights were switched on, but its engine was not running, she said.

Mr Shackleton's solicitor Ben Whittingham said his client disputed being "in charge" of the vehicle.

Dressed in a suit, Mr Shackleton spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address.

He has made 12 appearances for the Blades since joining the club in July 2024. He came through the Leeds United academy.

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This story was amended on 15 January as a version published earlier that day incorrectly stated the charge was drink driving.